Any Last minute tips?

So I am done with my Air Force Auxiliary stuff and I am on my way home. I am leaving Aug 4 for my Zephyr (and SWC and CS and CL and LSL) trip. Any last minute tips or advice? It's for my 18th birthday.

HAVE FUN!! :wub:

Nice trip Tyler! We're envious!

Stock up on your favorite snacks,get 1 or2 dollar bills for tips, then pack, and then cut what you take in half!

Thanks! Any tips on exercising onboard?

Walk from one end to the other. On some of the trains, the rail fan window will be in the last coach. Don't worry about having to walk through the diner and cafe cars to get to the coaches (you're in sleepers on most, if not all, trains, right?).

TylerP42 said:

Thanks! Any tips on exercising onboard?

Click to expand...

During fresh air breaks, de-train and walk back and forth on the platform (if the break is long enough), otherwise you can just walk/jog in place. If you are used to lifting weights, a rubber exercise tube can be used in lieu of weights inside your room. I bring a yoga strap and use it to stretch in my room. I used to bring a jump rope with me and jump rope on the platform during fresh air breaks. I now either walk, jog, stretch, or practice some standing yoga poses. A long time ago, I gave up being concerned about people pointing and laughing at me.

Enjoy your trip Tyler!!!

I am hoping to do a run during the long layovers (Chicago especially, since I know the area well now)

Any other railfan tips?

Roosevelt Road in Chicago is a good spot. And I think reasonably safe

No I mean on the train.

Take a pair of ear plugs. They can come in handy when trying to sleep at night. Also, if you have sleeper reservation during layovers, take advantage of leaving your bags in the first class lounges if they're available. I did that at Chicago and it was worth it.

Also, relax and have fun. Take a ton of pictures and post a trip report when you return, I enjoy reading every one of them.

Remember that unexpected "things" (weather, freight, mechanical issues, etc.) can happen, and try to go with the flow.

I understand that you will be traveling part of they way with a real "veteran," who can guide you through the bumps, if any. Have fun, and make sure your traveling companion sends me text updates (but not before 6am eastern time - LOL).